Applying software development principles to its people strategy is helping software specialist Phoebus to engage and empower colleagues – and win clients.
The Solihull-based company, the market’s leading mortgages and savings account servicing technology provider, has invested significantly in its employee wellbeing offering as part of its continued efforts to create an environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to thrive.
Alongside the launch of a new Employee Assistance Program (EAP), giving colleagues and their families access to 24/7 confidential mental health and wellbeing support, Phoebus hosted a series of health and wellbeing webinars, covering physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.
It implemented a ‘work from anywhere’ policy, allowing colleagues to work from other locations for weeks each year. This is alongside its current hybrid working model with colleagues attending the office one day per week.
It also launched a new volunteering policy, encouraging employees to give back to causes they care about during working hours. This supports the company’s existing partnerships with charities Helping Hands and the Family Care Trust.
These initiatives have helped Phoebus to increase engagement scores year on year.
The secret, according to chief people officer Kate Langton, is applying agile principles - common in software development - to people strategy.
“It means listening to employees through surveys, testing new wellbeing initiatives, and iterating based on real feedback”, she explained.
“This continuous improvement loop has led to greater engagement, lower attrition and enhanced internal mobility.”
The approach has seen Phoebus, which recently published its 2025 Positive Impact Report, shortlisted for multiple best employer awards this year.
Kate said: “At Phoebus, we believe our people are our greatest asset, and their wellbeing and development are paramount to our success.
“We have an unwavering focus on building a workplace where people feel supported, included, and empowered to succeed both for today and into the future.”
Looking ahead, Phoebus will continue to invest in the wellbeing, growth, and inclusion of its people. Key initiatives include the introduction of a new wellbeing kiosk, giving colleagues the opportunity to proactively track key health metrics and receive personalised advice to support healthier habits.
It is also introducing a Positive Impact Ambassadors (PIAs) team to champion its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy to raise awareness, take actions and recommend improvements.
Neurodiversity training and awareness is also a priority – proactively supporting neurodiversity is important at Phoebus as technology is an industry with typically higher levels of neurodivergence.
Richard Pike, chief sales and marketing officer, said the initiatives were not only building a positive culture, but also a competitive advantage.
He said: “The more I speak with our clients and prospects, the more it comes across that being ethical and committed to diversity, inclusion and wellbeing is a huge part of their decision-making process.”
